What is a Bedroom Community?

You may have seen listings that describe a neighborhood as a “bedroom community.” But what does that term really mean? And is a bedroom community the right choice for you? Let us break it down for you.

What is a bedroom community?

A bedroom community is typically a residential area outside of a big city. Most of the residents of a bedroom community are those who work in the city and commute. Often they are within an hour of a large city, and they offer a more residential appeal than what you would find in an urban setting. The name “bedroom community” comes from the idea that most residents only sleep there while doing their other activities elsewhere.

What are the benefits of a bedroom community?

Generally speaking, bedroom communities are more affordable than their big-city counterparts (those this is not true for all major cities). When you buy a home in a bedroom community, you’ll get more space coupled with an overall lower cost of living. The pace is slower, and residents usually describe a better quality of life.

Another great perk of living in a bedroom community is a lower crime rate. Big cities tend to have higher crime rates, especially violent crimes. You’ll find that most bedroom communities are close-knit, and it’s more likely that you’ll know your neighbors. These towns often host regular community events and festivals, which is a great way to get out and meet people. In fact, many bedroom communities are dispelling the notion that residents spend most of their time outside the neighborhood. These communities have become great places to raise families, enjoy a night out, and even attend cultural events.

Speaking of families, many bedroom communities feature amazing school systems that are well-supported locally. Your child’s school will likely be close to your home, making it easier to get to and from school and special events.

What are the disadvantages of a bedroom community?

One of the biggest disadvantages of a bedroom community could be the distance you have to travel for work. Studies have shown that commute times directly relate to levels of happiness. The longer time you spend commuting, the less happy you are overall.

And if you prefer public transportation to driving in your car, a bedroom community may not be a great fit. Though some bedroom communities are connected to major train and bus lines, most commuters spend that time in their cars.

Lack of entertainment and nightlife can be a turnoff for some people, especially young adults. Since most bedroom communities seem to attract families, younger folks don’t always find the amenities they would like, such as bars or nightclubs. You may also be limited to the types of stores and shopping destinations that are available. In bedroom communities you’re more likely to find big-box stores and franchises than hip coffee shops and small businesses.

Ultimately, whether or not to buy a home in a bedroom community is a personal choice. By weighing the pros and cons that are outlined above, you can be confident in making the choice that is right for you.